The 6th edition of the Sustainable Development Forum was held in Mali on October 6-7, 2026, at the Conseil National du Patronat in Hamdallaye Aci. The forum brought together public, private, and civil society actors to discuss ways to make territories drivers of sustainable development. This year's theme was "Local Communities and Sustainability: Local Solutions for a Prosperous and Inclusive Future." The event provided a platform for stakeholders to share ideas on sustainable development challenges.
The forum has been a significant event since its inception in 2020, serving as a space for reflection and discussion on major environmental, economic, and social challenges. This year's focus was on local communities, their potential, and their capacity to provide solutions tailored to local realities. The mining sector, often at the center of environmental and economic development debates, was also a key topic of discussion.
Maimouna Salamanta, CEO of Moulina Mining SARL and director of the Tabakoro Ouest mine, emphasized the importance of responsible mining practices. She highlighted the need for job creation, environmental respect, and community development. Salamanta also discussed challenges in the extractive industry, including local content, resource transformation, energy transition, technological innovation, digitalization, and creating value-added products for African economies.
Moussa Diarra, Secretary General of the Ministry of Environment, Sanitation, and Sustainable Development, stressed that sustainable development begins in the territories. He encouraged participants to move beyond diagnosis and develop concrete proposals for financing, investment, and territorial development. Diarra emphasized the need for increased private sector involvement and partnerships between businesses, local communities, and governments.
The forum featured six panels that addressed sustainable employment, financing, carbon markets, economic sectors, infrastructure, and mining. Berthe Minian Bangaly, Director General of the CICF, noted that the forum has expanded its themes over the years, from climate change to green project financing and clean energy. The event aimed to provide a platform for solutions to build more resilient, inclusive, and value-creating territories.
Key discussions at the forum included sensitization, training, innovation, and project development in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of partnerships and collaboration to achieve sustainable development goals. The forum provided a valuable opportunity for actors to share experiences and ideas on sustainable development.
The Sustainable Development Forum has become a significant annual event in Mali, promoting discussion and action on sustainable development challenges. The 6th edition demonstrated the country's commitment to finding local solutions to global challenges. By engaging various stakeholders, the forum aims to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for Mali and beyond.
Key points
- The forum focused on local solutions for sustainable development
- The mining sector was a key topic of discussion
- Stakeholders emphasized the need for partnerships and collaboration
